RMH

We are from New Liskeard, in northern Ontario. We needed a place to stay while William, our 5-year-old son, was treated for cancer. 

Doctors first diagnosed William with Ependymona, a rare type of tumour, in 2009, when he was just shy of two years old.  The tumour was in his brain and was removed through hospital radiation treatments in Toronto.

Back then, we stayed at the old Ronald McDonald House Toronto on Gerrard Street.  If it were not for the House, we would have had to stay at a motel, which would have been very costly for us, along with food expenses, extra parking, laundry, etc. It would have caused a lot more stress.

In 2013, William’s cancer came back.  He is the first in our family to have cancer so it has been hard on everyone.  Being so far away from home – about 5 ½ hours --- the distance was particularly difficult for us to get the support we needed. Not knowing the outcome is the worst part.

Being able to stay at the new House on McCaul Street, William has enjoyed the outdoor playground, the theatre and children’s activities. The rooms are more spacious and the kitchen is wonderful!  We were also able to meet families and friends and really felt at home. The House gave us a sense of security.  We cannot say enough about the new House! Great job to everyone involved in planning and building it.  It is close to the hospital -- SickKids and Princess Margaret.  The House staff is very helpful. And the kids are kept very busy with a variety of great programs --- so that they can feel like kids.

Without this support a lot of families like ours would not be able to be with their entire family at a time of need.  

Thank you.

Jo-Anne
William’s Mom